Detroit Bad Boys - All PostsA community of Detroit Pistons fans since 2005https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/48119/detroitbadboys-fave.png2016-12-09T22:42:06-05:00http://www.detroitbadboys.com/rss/current/This is an XML content feed. It is intended to be viewed in a newsreader or syndicated to another site, subject to copyright and fair use.2016-12-09T22:42:06-05:002016-12-09T22:42:06-05:00Pistons at Timberwolves final score: Pistons run away in second half, win 117-90
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<p>Andre Drummond leads the way with his second straight 20-20 game.</p> <p id="9hVYPA">Pistons outscored the Timberwolves 68-47 in the second half. That’ll do it.</p>
<p id="RKMzfg">The teams kept things pretty tight in the first half with Zach LaVine and Andrew Wiggins attacking the rim for Minnesota. But their offense dried up as the Pistons defense tightened. </p>
<p id="1FIF45">The Pistons defense was particularly tough on the perimeter, allowing just 2-15 from behind the arc. </p>
<p id="rZ2w4T">They couldn’t find their offense Wednesday night in Charlotte, but the Pistons didn’t have any trouble scoring tonight. </p>
<p id="iMSBQv">All five starters scored double figures, as did Jon Leuer playing in front of his hometown crowd off the bench. </p>
<p id="7DK2N6">Andre Drummond followed up one of his best games of the season against the Hornets with another great one in Minneapolis. He finished with 22 points and 22 rebounds, along with 10-13 shooting. It was his first back to back 20/20 game since November 3, 2015. There was also this:</p>
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<p id="4DjKHe">The Pistons also had one of their better games slinging the ball around finishing with 23 assists with only seven turnovers. Ish Smith wasn’t among the crew scoring in double figures, but he was brilliant off the bench - offering 8 points, 6 assists, and a pair of steals without a single turnover.</p>
<p id="JxyEyg">Marcus Morris took a shot to the face from an Adreian Payne elbow late in the fourth, which was ruled a flagrant two and led to Payne’s ejection. Morris didn’t return, but was able to walk off the court after taking a few minutes to let the stars clear.</p>
<p id="rv5uKk">With the big fourth quarter lead, Stan Van Gundy was able to clear the bench - including getting Rice Lake, Wisconsin native Henry Ellenson into the game. Western Wisconsin is basically Minnesota and Ellenson had family in the crowd. He gave them a thrill with a three pointer just seconds after getting onto the court. </p>
<p id="qu7Su0">It was a nice win to get the Pistons back on track after a rather ugly loss to the Hornets. They could build some momentum as the Pistons host the Philadelphia 76ers on Sunday before road games against the Dallas Mavericks and Washington Wizards. </p>
<p id="ybG5gk">ROLL CALL:</p>
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<p>With Minnesota, Philadelphia and Dallas coming up, 3-0 wouldn’t be asking too much. </p> <p id="fUNiZ0">The Minnesota Timberwolves were the sexy pick in the preseason to capture one of the final playoffs spots in the always competitive Western Conference. With youngsters Karl Anthony-Towns, Andrew Wiggins and Zach LaVine already on the roster and Tom Thibodeau appointed as the new head coach, it’s not hard to see why so many held such high optimism. </p>
<p id="VC2Xmb">Thing’s haven’t gone exactly to plan. </p>
<p id="vQSeIf">Sitting at 6-16, the Timberpupp’s have a long way to go to fulfill the high expectations that were pushed upon them. </p>
<p id="9dZbvZ">That’s were the Pistons come into play; after a slugfest - to put it nicely - against Charlotte, the Pistons have winnable games against Minnesota, Philadelphia and Dallas to help get back on track. I can’t express this enough: they must take advantage of these games as I still cringe at the losses at Brooklyn and Phoenix.</p>
<h2 id="lSXvle">Game Vitals</h2>
<p id="f1StcT"><strong>When: </strong>December 9th @ 8pm EST<br><strong>Where: </strong>Target Center; Minneapolis, Minnesota<br><strong>Watch: </strong>Fox Sports Detroit</p>
<h2 id="1XGXZj">Analysis</h2>
<p id="iSwdT9">Coach Thibodeau came to Minnesota with a reputation of a defensive guru and for good reason as he practically invented the ‘two-nine’ strategy to counter rule changes of the early 2000’s. As Doc Rivers’ defensive coach for the championship Celtics, Thib’s relied on a savvy group of veterans to execute his intricate defensive philosophy. In Minnesota, he’s dealing with players who are probably playing defense for the first time in their careers. Keeping that in mind, Thibodeau had to relax on some of his defensive principles. </p>
<p id="HJQLeM">Let’s take a look at one strategy that has changed from his Boston day’s and one that remains the same:</p>
<div id="v0CTMP"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/i207" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<p id="7Vejtk">In Boston, a Thib’s staple included a hard show or hedge by the big in a centered pick and roll. No one - maybe ever - did this better than Kevin Garnett and it held true with the rest of Boston’s roster. A hard hedge requires constant communication and again, no one did this better than Garnett. </p>
<p id="bWhUlK">Communication is often lost on young players let alone a team full of wide eyed could-be-still-in-college guys. Anthony-Towns has the tools to do this but it takes time. In the example above, instead of a hard hedge, KAT simply switches. Of course Boston switched too on certain occasions but you won’t find any Minny big doing this. </p>
<p id="D25kmB">Another strategy Thibodeau is famous for is ICE-ing the sideline pick and roll, this remains a constant with the Timberwolves. ICE simply means to force the action towards the baseline and away from the lane. </p>
<div id="T3X01E"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/iz09" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<p id="2c4a6a">Above, LaVine does a good job in keeping Rodney Hood away from the paint by forcing him to his help in the form of Gorgui Dieng (also, if you squint real hard, that’s Ben Wallace in a Cleveland uniform). </p>
<p id="lyMT3f">As with most good things, ICE-ing has been copied by many teams and coaches because if ran properly, only two defenders are needed to negate the sideline pick and roll. Again though, that’s<em> if ran properly</em>.</p>
<p id="wwIrde">****</p>
<p id="sIkEbP">It doesn’t take much for a defensive scheme to lose it’s way. If Player A zig’s when a zag was called, it usually ends up in a good look for the offense. </p>
<p id="ajjhXC">Watch this next play at least three times. First, watch Ricky Rubio, then KAT and lastly, watch the play unfold (I know, I know...homework sucks).</p>
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<p id="fbMcpa">Rubio: At the very beginning of the play you can clearly see Rubio’s name and number on the back of his jersey from our TV angle. This typically means he’s trying to force the ball handler away from the viewer. Well, he fails. </p>
<p id="3bdTXi">Anthony-Towns: Expecting the ball handler to go the other way (as designed), he starts to help on the wrong side of the eventual penetration.</p>
<p id="tPOsc1">Result: The great Nicolas Laprovittola (um, who?) penetrates by beating Rubio and a back peddling, awkward KAT and a finishes with nice little euro step. </p>
<p id="d1X0ZR">Defense is fun like that. At 108.0, Minnesota’s defensive rating sits at 26th in the league. It’s got to drive Thibodeau nuts.</p>
<p id="JIkJE4">****</p>
<p id="3Ixn7R">If you think all Zach LaVine can do is dunk, you need League Pass. </p>
<p id="KPgzr0">Anthony-Towns and Wiggins scoop up most of the hype but it’s LaVine who has made arguably the biggest jump over the past season. The not-yet-22 year old leads the team in average minutes played at 37 per contest and while he’s traditionally a shooting guard, he can dabble at lead guard. </p>
<p id="zaJSO8">The maturation of his offensive game goes far beyond dunking; he’s turned into a patient scorer, which is extremely tough to defend. </p>
<p id="j3bpvy">Below, Dieng sets a hammer screen for LaVine on the weakside - 99/100, a hammer screen is meant to set up the corner three:</p>
<div id="GTfdlW"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/wvlj" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<p id="SsV2ud">LaVine catches the ball in the corner but instead of rushing a 3-point attempt, he plays a quick give-and-go with Dieng and ends up with a bucket just as the shot clock is set to expire. SportsCenter worthy? No. Pissed off opposing coach? You bet. </p>
<p id="uCtiR9">Still don’t believe he’s a legit two guard? </p>
<p id="Y7tDsF">Watch how the San Antonio Spurs react to the elevator door screen set for LaVine. </p>
<div id="rCAJ9m"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 56.2493%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/zz2c" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<p id="CPpqT4">Kawhi Leonard, Pau Gasol and LaMarcus Aldridge all react to LaVine leaving a wide open path to the hoop. They ain’t doing that for a bum. </p>
<h2 id="islTvi">Projected Lineups</h2>
<p id="09IRQi"><strong>Minnesota</strong></p>
<p id="NXalWZ">Ricky Rubio, Zach LaVine, Karl Anthony-Towns, Gorgui Dieng, Andrew Wiggins</p>
<p id="D3HeLg"><strong>Detroit</strong></p>
<p id="9wvfmV">Reggie Jackson, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Andre Drummond, Marcus Morris, Tobias Harris</p>
<h2 id="oL9uCF"><strong>Prediction</strong></h2>
<p id="zz1ELu">Again, this is game we need to win and there is no reason why the Pistons shouldn’t leave Minneapolis with a W. </p>
<p id="csENVU">The Timberwolves are 2-8 in games that are within five points within the the last five minutes. The late game blunders that cost Minnesota a handful of wins last year were suppose to be cured with the addition of Thibodeau but he has failed to make an impact in that department. </p>
<p id="jcfYi6">Teams can run on Minny and this should light up Ish Smith and the second unit’s eyes. </p>
<p id="PhnXzP">Minnesota is on the second night of a traveling back-to-back and are only 3-7 at home this year; not exactly a house of horrors. </p>
<p id="xy9gSA"><em>Pistons 102, Timberwolves 88</em></p>
<h2 id="t8rWtC">Community Question</h2>
<p id="rTPFEq">I watch between 15-20 minutes of college basketball each season so I really don’t have a grasp on what’s going on but it seems like the college game suppresses their talent. How does Karl Anthony-Towns get 20 minutes a game and average 10 points in his only season at Kentucky playing LSU and Alabama but then average 18 points in his rookie year playing professionals? I believe Kentucky utilized a hockey shift substitution pattern but they didn’t win, so play KAT more, right? That’s one example, I could name 100. </p>
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<p>Also enjoy a completely baseless internet rumor that has the Pistons obtaining Paul George!</p> <h3 id="zcDIpU">Andre Drummond is bringing the 'Bad Boys' style of play back to Pistons</h3>
<p id="noWNEz">Is Drummond ‘Bad Boys’ bad? The jury is still out. While Drummond is playing better recently, less talk and less cheap shots on others would be preferred. Check this piece on <a href="http://www.sportingnews.com/nba/news/andre-drummond-detroit-pistons-nba-all-star-center-vote-fantasy/jji3dqrwbult15ax8c36fl661">SportingNews</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="9Xh4uc">Pistons great Isaiah Thomas recently gave high praise to Drummond, telling Sporting News he would’ve fit in perfectly with the Bad Boys teams of the late 1980s and early ’90s. </p>
<p id="FTRkw4">"Everybody who knows me knows the way I play," said Drummond, who has led the Pistons to a 6-2 record in their last eight games. "I don't take any mess out there. I don’t play dirty, but I'm not here to be messed with. I respect everybody, but I got work to do."</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="3g1niE">One Team, Three Stats: Late-game issues for Wolves</h3>
<p id="YPHL2o">Some <a href="http://www.nba.com/article/2016/12/08/one-team-three-stats-minnesota-timberwolves-late-game-struggles">stats to note</a> prior to Friday’s tilt with the Timberwolves: </p>
<blockquote>
<p id="mG6O3C"><strong>The Wolves are 2-8 in games that were within five points in the last five minutes of the fourth quarter.</strong></p>
<p id="3pMveu">That is <a href="http://stats.nba.com/teams/clutch-traditional/#!?sort=W_PCT&amp;dir=1">the league's worst mark in close games</a>. Even the Philadelphia 76ers (3-9) have been better.</p>
<p id="lzJxfb">The Wolves lost their first six games that were within five points in the last five minutes. They have won two of their last four, but their late-game problems have been holding them back.</p>
<p id="jBPOt2"><strong>The Wolves have the point differential (minus-1.5 points per game) of a team that's 9-12, not 6-15.</strong> That discrepancy between their "expected" wins (based on point differential) and their actual wins is the largest in the league. Thus far, the Wolves are the anti-Grizzlies (winners of close games, losers of blowouts).</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="zgT2Sy">Most of us can say that we don’t follow the T-Wolves much at all, so the numbers have no choice but to reign supreme:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="PJ0oN6"><strong>The Wolves have been 13.4 points per 100 possessions better with Ricky Rubio off the floor </strong><a href="http://stats.nba.com/team/#!/1610612750/onoffcourt-advanced/"><strong>than they've been with him on the floor</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p>
<p id="ttQP5O">If you've paid attention to the Wolves over the last five seasons, you would know that this is the most bizarre thing about the team's first six weeks. Over the years, Minnesota has generally been at its best with Rubio on the floor.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="1y92Ba">Today's NBA centers seem to be emulating Dirk's outside shooting prowess ... or at least trying</h3>
<p id="qPyGzj">Some of us are waiting for nice, long stretches of Jon Leuer at the center spot, or is it just me?</p>
<p id="3w8ev1">Via the <a href="http://sportsday.dallasnews.com/dallas-mavericks/mavericks/2016/12/07/todays-nba-centers-seem-emulating-trying-dirks-outside-shooting-prowess">Dallas News</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="b7XmF6">Last season, Cousins began making 3-pointers regularly. This season, he's up to 4.8 attempts per game and making 38.3 percent of them.</p>
<p id="DNWgT3">And now Memphis' Marc Gasol is shooting and making 3s, as are big men LaMarcus Aldridge and Pau Gasol in San Antonio. Are we seeing the advent of the stretch-five?</p>
<p id="thQo87">"It's a reality," said Carlisle, noting that the Mavericks have worked with Powell on extending his shooting range, and that when Nowitzki is healthy he often plays center on offense.</p>
<p id="NE4zwl">"This started back in the '80s with [Seattle's] Jack Sikma. Jack was the first guy that I recall being a 6-11 center that stretched it out."</p>
<p id="9h2OOX">In the late '80s and early '90s, Detroit center Bill Laimbeer effectively stretched his shooting range to 3-point distance, though not as often as some of today's centers.</p>
</blockquote>
<h3 id="lMTcgD">Indiana Pacers Rumors: NBA superstar Paul George heading to Detroit Pistons on a rumored deal?</h3>
<p id="gm3J0m">Had a little too much surfing time on my hands. Though I don’t feel too guilty — it’s Friday!</p>
<p id="rwXlUy">From the one and only <a href="http://www.hngn.com/articles/220497/20161208/indiana-pacers-rumors-nba-superstar-paul-george-heading-detroit-pistons.htm">Headlines &amp; Global News</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="KsZkY8">Now, NBA trade rumors are spreading that a <a href="http://nba-trade-rumors.com/index.htm">proposed trade deal</a> between the Pacers and Pistons that involves 5 players and future picks is now on the trading table waiting to be discussed. Trade scenario is suggesting as follows:</p>
<p id="i4RSHD">1. The Detroit Pistons will acquire Paul George and Monta Ellis from the Pacers;</p>
<p id="UMHlCk">2. The Indiana Pacers will then receive Tobias Harris, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Stanley Johnson plus Detroit's 2017 unprotected 1st, 2018 2nd and 2019 unprotected 1st draft picks</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="U0Sx6C">If that seems like insane garbage, it’s because it is. The original source is from the infamous <a href="http://nba-trade-rumors.com">nba-trade-rumors.com</a>. </p>
<p id="XK9Se5">This is also probably a good time to read Seth Rosenthal’s amusing and essential take down of the <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nba/2016/11/15/13629660/nba-trade-rumors-fake-news-klay-thompson">fake NBA rumor mill</a>.</p>
<h3 id="nSr42K">Lorenzo Brown looking to score tons of points</h3>
<p id="aU6x6r">Brown very recently <a href="http://www.asia-basket.com/China/news/472072/Lorenzo-Brown-agreed-terms-with-Zhejiang-Chouzhou-Bank">signed a deal with Zhejiang Chouzhou</a> of the Chinese Basketball League. Despite joining a 4-10 team, he’ll get a ton of shots and be in the running to score 30-plus points per game, which is essentially what the CBA is all about for foreign imports. I’ll keep you updated on Brown’s results.</p>
<h1 id="hoYnUD">~~</h1>
<p id="I3IkSl">Prize for the fan in the comments who has the best trade proposal that doesn’t include Monta Ellis going to the Pistons — that’s really all I ask.</p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/detroitbadboys/~4/52kN6VtvvaY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/9/13879452/nba-links-andre-drummond-timberwolves-paul-george-tradePrava88http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/9/13879452/nba-links-andre-drummond-timberwolves-paul-george-trade2016-12-09T10:24:05-05:002016-12-09T10:24:05-05:00Job well done, Beno Udrih
<img alt="" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/CsoNQZZphZ0slZSZfvrkCNfkzlo=/0x0:4355x2903/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52214107/619037698.0.jpeg" />
<p>Beno Udrih — professional and potent.</p> <p id="0ybkIj">A 12-year NBA veteran, Beno Udrih knew the situation awaiting him in Detroit precisely: play a steadying backup point guard role behind fill-in starter Ish Smith until the injured Reggie Jackson returned 20 or so games into the season. Nothing more, nothing less. It was a clear job from <a href="http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/10/24/13394364/detroit-pistons-beno-udrih-nba-miami-heat-ray-mccallum-reggie-jackson-back-point-guard">the beginning</a> and one that Beno completed with no problem. SVG on <a href="http://www.mlive.com/pistons/index.ssf/2016/12/with_pistons_reggie_jackson_ba_1.html">Udrih's play and situation</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="2LaUOA">Stan Van Gundy has said he has no intention of playing three point guards, leaving Udrih and his 7.0-point, 3.4-assist average sidelined.</p>
<p id="5WfrIs">"He's played really, really well," Van Gundy said. "It's just -- and it's one he can tell you, he knew coming in exactly what the situation was. It wasn't anything that was hidden from him or anything. And so, it's never easy.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="gmail-m_9192033975915661582gmail-m_3959592819091903117gmail-m_7932823670067892146gmail-m_4759976537795156669gmail-m_-1522696972398413388gmail-m_2685673242837741278gmail-m_930991907217426812gmail-m_2327108567234543861gmail-uqZDf5">Despite being waived earlier this October by the Miami Heat in favor of undrafted 2013 graduate and D-League grinder Rodney McGruder, Beno was not far removed from playing decent ball — he played in <a href="http://www.espn.com/nba/player/gamelog/_/id/2448/year/2015/beno-udrih">10</a> <a href="http://www.espn.com/nba/player/gamelog/_/id/2448/year/2015/beno-udrih">playoff games</a> with the Memphis Grizzlies in 2015, averaging 17.5 minutes per game and nearly 8 points (had a 20-point, 7-assist and 7-rebound effort in game 1 in first round). </p>
<p id="YHOAGH">Even though Udrih will likely experience many games glued to the bench now that Jackson is back, there is a possibility for him to see spot backup point guard duty in back-to-back situations for some time as Jackson works carefully back into things. From Rod Beard of the <a href="http://www.detroitnews.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2016/12/06/pistons-van-gundy-admires-wades-longevity/95067566/">Detroit News</a>:</p>
<blockquote>
<p id="GWFmPc">Van Gundy said the medical staff will continue to monitor Jackson’s minutes, potentially even restricting him from playing back-to-back games or extended minutes. The Pistons play their first back-to-back since Jackson’s return, Wednesday night in Charlotte, which could be in jeopardy.</p>
<p id="YTfqoM">In that case, Ish Smith easily could shift back as the starter and Beno Udrih slide back into the backup role.</p>
</blockquote>
<p id="571XAJ">Van Gundy’s <a href="http://www.nba.com/pistons/features/pistons-give-big-lead-then-come-back-grab-one-they-couldnt-afford-lose">clarification</a> on the back-to-back issue:</p>
<blockquote><p id="uPEWOx">“We haven’t decided that yet,” Stan Van Gundy said before Tuesday’s win. That’ll be determined after tonight, probably tomorrow morning after we see how he feels after tonight. <strong>There hasn’t been a blanket statement that he won’t play back to backs, but I also haven’t gotten assurances that he will, either</strong>."</p></blockquote>
<p id="oasKh2">Right now, Udrih is a comfortable insurance policy at best — and he and everyone knows that. It is what it is — yet it’s far from a bad thing. And in case you forgot, a good many Pistons fans, Sean Corp being one, have made the argument for <a href="http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/11/23/13715128/detroit-pistons-ish-smith-beno-udrih-starting-point-guard">Beno being the starting point guard</a> for this team. That argument was made about two weeks ago after Ish Smith was, shall we say, coming off some less than effective performances. With Darrun Hilliard's sound play against the Chicago Bulls Tuesday night, the second-year guard is <a href="http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nba/pistons/2016/12/07/stan-van-gundy-going-stay-darrun-hilliard-pistons-rotation/95061554/">continuing to make the case</a> that he should get the backup shooting guard minutes. However, if Hilliard falls way off and Stanley Johnson's name isn't called to take back his minutes, Udrih could very well be in line for some shooting guard time, or, to put it another way, he could be the fourth weapon in a backcourt rotation of Jackson, Caldwell-Pope and Smith. </p>
<p id="pJnESV">Although Udrih is not a blazin' wild 3-three-point shooter, he's shown throughout his career that he can splash them at a respectable <a href="http://www.basketball-reference.com/players/u/udrihbe01.html">mid-thirties percentage clip</a>. As such, with Jackson playing the one, Beno could conceivably see some minutes at shooting guard when KCP rests. Other possibilities could see Udrih at his natural one spot with Jackson or KCP at the two. This might be also valuable since Jackson might be able to conserve energy by playing the two on occasion, no matter who the point guard is. That any of these situations would ever materialize is slim, but it's worth considering. SVG has options galore.</p>
<p id="mwlkmF">It’s unfortunate for Udrih, but let's just hope Hilliard keeps his strong play up and that Johnson finds himself. That’s clearly best for the team.</p>
<p id="m6waNo">In any case, Beno Udrih has more than did his job here in Detroit and proved he still has the good type of gas left in his 34-year-old NBA tank. It wouldn't be surprising at all if Udrih is asked back next season to be the Pistons’ third point guard, would it?</p>
<p id="yAx1pU">What do you think, DBB?</p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/detroitbadboys/~4/opVRt8JbCpg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/9/13864484/beno-udrih-detroit-pistons-point-guard-reggie-jackson-ish-smithPrava88http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/9/13864484/beno-udrih-detroit-pistons-point-guard-reggie-jackson-ish-smith2016-12-07T22:31:49-05:002016-12-07T22:31:49-05:00Pistons vs. Hornets Final Score: Pistons lose brickfest to Charlotte, 87-77
<img alt="" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/HZeEwBrHQ7AvgoJFFuSWlRU55Yo=/0x282:2597x2013/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52189997/usa_today_9730272.0.jpeg" />
<p>It was an awful game by both teams, and not fun to watch.</p> <p id="q0uUzR">Can we just call this game a loss for both teams? The Pistons were coming off a game last night, but that is not an excuse for how poorly they played on offense. Charlotte last played on Monday, so they really do not have an excuse.</p>
<p id="bwvYrm">It looked like any other NBA game after the first quarter, it was 24-23 and both teams did not look too bad. However, the 2nd quarter really set the tone for the rest of the game and not in a good way.</p>
<p id="k15QZo">Both teams clanked their way to a 15-15 tie in the 2nd quarter and a 39-38 halftime score. This one looked like it was going to be one of the lowest scoring games in the NBA.</p>
<p id="ySIoGh">The 3rd quarter was not much different as both teams continued to play putrid offense. The score at the end of the 3rd quarter looked like a halftime score for what has been a pretty high-scoring NBA season, 61-58 Charlotte.</p>
<p id="tqBbws">The Pistons did a pretty good job containing Kemba Walker for the first three quarters. Walker went off in the 4th quarter to the tune of 15 points to finish the game with 25. Marco Bellinelli also hit some tough shots down the stretch and finished with 13 points.</p>
<p id="97loCY">This game was so miserable to watch, I can’t even really make a determination if it was good defense or just horrible offense (editor’s note: it was horrible offense). The Pistons shot 38 percent from the field and a paltry 14 percent from three (4-27). Charlotte shot even worse from the field at 34 percent, although they shot 28 percent from three (6-21).</p>
<p id="SzcoS3">It could be argued that the difference in the game was the free throw discrepancy. The Pistons only attempted 8(!) free throws while the Hornets shot 29 free throws. Some will blame it on the refs, but the Pistons players did a poor job of trying to draw contact. It is important to be able to do that when you are struggling so much on offense, and the Pistons do not have a player who can do that reliably.</p>
<p id="9hBWMl">This game wasn’t all bad for the Pistons as Andre Drummond had arguably his best game of the season. He finished with yet another 20-20 with 26 points and 20 rebounds on 11 of 14 shooting. It is overshadowed by the ineptitude of the rest of his team, but it is definitely worth mentioning.</p>
<p id="NxJHwv">Luckily, the Pistons head into a relatively easy stretch of games over the next week. Hopefully they can turn things around and string together a few wins. Although playing that poorly on offense will not beat even the worst teams in the league.</p>
<p id="msRMcY">The Pistons (12-12) will face the Minnesota Timberwolves in Minnesota on Friday.</p>
<p id="RExGiq"></p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/detroitbadboys/~4/Kcqtwx8kXlc" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/7/13879608/pistons-vs-hornets-final-score-pistons-lose-brickfest-to-charlotte-87-77Justin Lambregtsehttp://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/7/13879608/pistons-vs-hornets-final-score-pistons-lose-brickfest-to-charlotte-87-772016-12-07T14:30:02-05:002016-12-07T14:30:02-05:00Pistons vs. Hornets preview: Beware the Kemba and Cody show
<img alt="" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/_kwFFH89G1n9WSodWjBLatg5Nao=/0x0:3320x2213/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52181341/usa_today_9728088.0.jpeg" />
<p>Kemba Walker might be the best player nobody talks about</p> <p id="JEM8AO">The Detroit Pistons face the Charlotte Hornets just nine days after besting them 112-89. The Pistons shouldn’t be overconfident, however, as Charlotte was playing its fourth game in five days. Now, they’re coming off of rest and the Pistons are on the second night of a back-to-back. The Hornets are also, incidentally, a really good team. </p>
<h3 id="IiJdBH">Game Vitals</h3>
<p id="NijTNl"><strong>When:</strong> December 7th @ 7 PM EST<br><strong>Where:</strong> Time Warner Cable Arena, Charlotte, N.C. <br><strong>Watch:</strong> Fox Sports Detroit</p>
<h3 id="Jiprk2">Analysis</h3>
<p id="MWX5Dn">Kemba Walker might just be the best point guard in the NBA that nobody is talking about. Walker didn’t burst out of the gate. He struggled in his first two years while soaking up 4,500 minutes on a largely forgotten Charlotte team. Then he started putting things together. Last year, he was the best player on a 49-win team and this year he has exploded as one of the most dangerous points guards in the NBA. </p>
<p id="dtkV4p">He’s not Steph Curry or Russell Westbrook, dangerous, no, but when you think about point guards in the East, he belongs in the same conversations as Kyrie Irving, Kyle Lowry and John Wall. </p>
<p id="HITWGn">How does he do it? By adding veteran savvy to his natural quickness and strength, and by slowly building his 3-point shot, which now sits above 40 percent on over six attempts per game. </p>
<h4 id="d48yOE">Savvy</h4>
<div id="0hLNgq"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 93.3097%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/7u0m" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<h4 id="f410fS">Strength + Quickness</h4>
<div id="CW7Rxo"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 83.3333%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/nktw" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<h4 id="ybQPuh">3-point shooting</h4>
<div id="p070Fs"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 84.5237%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/o20r" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<p id="JnHyUw">You’ll notice also that Kemba loves to operate in the pick and roll. That should come as no surprise, however, as Hornets coach Steve Clifford is a Stan Van Gundy disciple. Walker averages 12 pick-and-roll possessions per game, third in the NBA, and scores .99 points per possession. For reference, last season Reggie Jackson led the NBA with 11.3 PNR possessions per game last season, but only managed to score .88 ppp. </p>
<p id="GgBCeE">Walker is not the Hornets’ only dangerous offensive weapon, however. Nicholas Batum is a playmaking wing who actually leads the team in assists and Cody Zeller is shooting better than 60 percent on the year because of quality screens, hard cuts and good footwork. </p>
<p id="fwTHe7">Detroit’s bigs can’t lose containment on the pick and roll whether they switch or fight through the screen. Charlotte can put you at risk of giving up jumpers and drives with just about any of its big men and ball handler combos. </p>
<div id="4lge7A"><div><div style="left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 0px; position: relative; padding-bottom: 87.7193%;"><iframe src="https://streamable.com/e/hk8l" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="" style="top: 0px; left: 0px; width: 100%; height: 100%; position: absolute;"></iframe></div></div></div>
<p id="SmEI2t">The Batum-Zeller pick and roll is dangerous, but, really, what the hell is Dwight Howard doing in the above clip?</p>
<p id="hLy4tk">To make things even more difficult for Detroit, Marvin Williams will be active and starting tonight after missing the first matchup with a bone bruise. Williams is a quality multi-positional defender who had a career year last year from deep. So far this year he is struggling with his perimeter shot, but he could make life tough for Tobias Harris. </p>
<p id="pV21Ap">On Detroit’s end, they need to slow down Walker, and that is a lot to ask of the recently returned Reggie Jackson (<a href="https://twitter.com/detnewsRodBeard/status/806546482316902400">who might sit tonight as it is the second game of a back-to-back</a>). Much like Detroit, Charlotte can really get cooking if their point guard is able to force the defense to react to the pick and roll. </p>
<p id="UKOzuv">Andre Drummond will also need to have a big game. Drummond was ejected in the first meeting after a swift elbow to the back of Roy Hibbert’s head. Detroit needs Drummond to control the boards and create second opportunities. </p>
<p id="ZBVmrx">I also wouldn’t be surprised to see Jon Leuer in action quite a bit on either Cody Zeller or Frank Kaminsky. Leuer has the length and quickness to bother shots and stay in front on drives and cuts to the hoop. He’ll also draw defenders out and mitigate some of Charlotte’s strength rebounding on the defensive end. </p>
<h3 id="KN4cst">Projected Lineups</h3>
<h4 id="iK01Rh">Pistons</h4>
<p id="0RB2Af">Reggie Jackson, Kentavious-Caldwell-Pope, Marcus Morris, Tobias Harris, Andre Drummond</p>
<h4 id="5fjjsQ">Hornets</h4>
<p id="JNDYXJ">Kemba Walker, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist, Nicolas Batum, Marvin Williams, Cody Zeller</p>
<h3 id="Xpj2WK">Prediction</h3>
<p id="Lc94o2">Both teams play hard. No ejections.</p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/detroitbadboys/~4/ZsqNAuN6QWg" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/7/13871974/pistons-hornets-preview-kemba-walker-cody-zellerSean Corphttp://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/7/13871974/pistons-hornets-preview-kemba-walker-cody-zeller2016-12-07T13:01:06-05:002016-12-07T13:01:06-05:00DBB Podcast: The return of Ben, Reggie, and the offense
<img alt="" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/nJzDlvIXA6Gv4ZCGQktdxs5S0oA=/0x26:2795x1889/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52180325/usa_today_9726265.0.jpeg" />
<p>Jordan Bellant is rejoined by Ben Gulker for a discussion on a 3-1 week of basketball, improving offense and the return of Reggie Jackson. </p> <p id="MYdNiH">Jordan Bellant and Ben Gulker are back for a crisp, new episode of the Detroit Bad Boys Podcast. Ben returns just in time to talk about a three-game winning streak, improved play, and a Reggie Jackson sighting!</p>
<p id="Qn5OXn">On this episode, Jordan and Ben run through each of the Pistons’ games over the last week. Starting with the big win over the Hornets (3:05), the back-to-back squeaker against the Celtics (12:35), and the domination of the Atlanta Hawks (20:45). </p>
<p id="SX8XZe">Then, moving onto the Magic game (37:10) and the return of Reggie Jackson (39:35)! With his return, improved play from KCP could change the workload for Reggie (41:50). </p>
<p id="Muv1hT">Ben points out the difference in the team’s performance between wins and losses (45:00). Part of that difference remains with the team’s rebounding (52:30) and play of Tobias Harris (55:25).</p>
<p id="l7gASf">That leads into a larger conversation about style and scheme. Are the Pistons becoming a “Grit and Grind” team (1:01:15)? More importantly, can this style win in today’s NBA? Listen to find out!</p>
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<p id="QKV7DO">Make sure to subscribe to the podcast on iTunes and rate the pod! To find archived episodes of the podcast, go to <a href="http://BlogTalkRadio.com/DetroitBadBoys">BlogTalkRadio.com/DetroitBadBoys</a>. </p>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/detroitbadboys/~4/TsXjAuD2QYQ" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/7/13870938/dbb-podcast-the-return-of-ben-reggie-jackson-and-the-offense-stan-van-gundyJordan Bellanthttp://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/7/13870938/dbb-podcast-the-return-of-ben-reggie-jackson-and-the-offense-stan-van-gundy2016-12-06T22:31:55-05:002016-12-06T22:31:55-05:00Pistons vs. Bulls final score: Pistons bench bullies the Bulls at the Palace, 102-91
<img alt="" src="https://cdn0.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/vve8WYiTamdJSkB2dVmHR38UoWU=/0x0:2727x1818/1310x873/cdn0.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/52170281/usa_today_9729012.0.jpeg" />
<p>Steller bench play carries Pistons past hot third quarter from Dwayne Wade and Jimmy Butler.</p> <p id="IfirVk">The Chicago Bulls gave the Pistons a good run despite being on the second night of a back to back (and their fourth game in five nights), but eventually ran out of gas. Pistons bench carried them past the Bulls with some stellar play, winning 102-91.</p>
<p id="ktRH3m">Tobias Harris put up 22 and Andre Drummond grabbed another double-double with 15 points and 10 boards, but again the real story tonight was the stellar play of the Pistons second unit which dropped 33 points (!!!).</p>
<p id="iCNdKM">Ish Smith was a playground maestro at the Palace tonight, pushing the pace and making smart passes like a teenager on Red Bull in a Toyota Prius. </p>
<p id="R9utBo">He dropped 10 dimes and 7 points while playing the entire fourth quarter and sealing the victory. Aron Baynes also got big minutes, playing 23 and putting up 8 points with 9 boards. Leuer got in on the action too with some solid dunks and 9 points.</p>
<p id="oVIWYr">At one point the Pistons had a 17 point lead and at about halfway through the first quarter, I signed up for the quick recap.</p>
<p id="mYngfE">“Sure Jamie, it’s all you tonight! Go for it”</p>
<p id="8Fsea8">Suddenly, I remember my quick recap cold streak from last year. </p>
<p id="p1KAeN">Then the Pistons shooting goes cold. Then the Bulls take the lead in the 3rd quarter. </p>
<p id="z8OGXE">Truth be told, I almost mailed this in and told the DBB staff “lol jk guys.”</p>
<p id="2A018r">Luckily, the lineup of Ish Smith, Hilliard, Tobias, Leuer and Baynes had different ideas and oh my god that is a lineup I never thought I would type out and be praising like this. Thanks to the contribution of this lineup, the Pistons put together an impressive 4th quarter run.</p>
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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">A 19-8 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pistons?src=hash">#Pistons</a> run since falling behind by 4 and they lead by 11 with 2:51 left</p>— Keith Langlois (@Keith_Langlois) <a href="https://twitter.com/Keith_Langlois/status/806327735878619136">December 7, 2016</a>
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<p id="a8xGPH">Even the bench guys who have been struggling were psyched. It’s sad how excited this tweet made me.</p>
<div id="TJt87E">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
<p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hilliard corner triple and <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Pistons?src=hash">#Pistons</a> lead by 8. Stanley first guy to jump off the bench clapping.</p>— NerdOnTw1tter (@Vincent_Ellis56) <a href="https://twitter.com/Vincent_Ellis56/status/806325447105486848">December 7, 2016</a>
</blockquote>
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<p id="gpJN9L">The starters weren’t by any means a mess, after a tough Bulls 6-0 run to start the second half, Reggie Jackson, Drummond, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Marcus Moriss settled down defensively and helped stop a run without wastin a Stan timeout. To me this was huge, something that won’t show up on any highlight but a moment that showed the subtle maturity of a young team.</p>
<p id="bvLIez">And, there was this.</p>
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<p id="bJxFJL">Roll call:</p>
<div id="I4E9x7"><table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" border="1">
<thead>
<tr>
<th width="20">#</th>
<th>Commenter</th>
<th># Comments</th>
</tr>
</thead>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>1</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Justin%20Lambregtse">Justin Lambregtse</a></td>
<td>65</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>2</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/CheerstoLilWayne">CheerstoLilWayne</a></td>
<td>43</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>3</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BigBensFro">BigBensFro</a></td>
<td>43</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>4</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Makeithappen19">Makeithappen19</a></td>
<td>38</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>5</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/mannie32">mannie32</a></td>
<td>36</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>6</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/The%20Notorious%20S.V.G">The Notorious S.V.G</a></td>
<td>31</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>7</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/sje">sje</a></td>
<td>28</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>8</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/buzzardbeater">buzzardbeater</a></td>
<td>26</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>9</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jayod">jayod</a></td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>10</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Crosseyed">Crosseyed</a></td>
<td>22</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>11</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/feez_22">feez_22</a></td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>12</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Christopher%20Daniels">Christopher Daniels</a></td>
<td>17</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>13</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/IamPAP">IamPAP</a></td>
<td>16</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>14</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/arkioll">arkioll</a></td>
<td>13</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>15</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/nbahsan">nbahsan</a></td>
<td>11</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>16</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ArumLily">ArumLily</a></td>
<td>8</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>17</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Jopl">Jopl</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>18</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Merwinly">Merwinly</a></td>
<td>7</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>19</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/agletdave">agletdave</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>20</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Rban">Rban</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>21</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/RSF86">RSF86</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>22</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/HaterWade">HaterWade</a></td>
<td>5</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>23</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/cbraendle">cbraendle</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>24</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/V.">V.</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>25</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/BandWagonerPaysTheDues">BandWagonerPaysTheDues</a></td>
<td>4</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>26</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Bruce_F">Bruce_F</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>27</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/Twenty9andTwenty7">Twenty9andTwenty7</a></td>
<td>3</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>28</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/ADrain">ADrain</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>29</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/dimes5">dimes5</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>30</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/bugman222">bugman222</a></td>
<td>2</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>31</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/MrHappyMushroom">MrHappyMushroom</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>32</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/alaskanpistonsfan">alaskanpistonsfan</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>33</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/The%20Better%20Morris%20Twin">The Better Morris Twin</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>34</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/iPlay2K">iPlay2K</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>35</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/keyesek">keyesek</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr class="alt">
<td>36</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/JWurm">JWurm</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>37</td>
<td><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/users/jbbg936">jbbg936</a></td>
<td>1</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table></div>
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</div><img src="http://feeds.feedburner.com/~r/detroitbadboys/~4/KVeQNs3jJnY" height="1" width="1" alt=""/>http://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/6/13863840/detroit-pistons-chicago-bulls-final-score-102-91-bench-bullies-bullsJamie_Delanceyhttp://www.detroitbadboys.com/2016/12/6/13863840/detroit-pistons-chicago-bulls-final-score-102-91-bench-bullies-bulls